Applying for the Leave Your Mark Grant is more than completing an application. It's an opportunity to share the story behind your mission. Whether you're serving overseas, volunteering in your community, or leading a nonprofit, this is your chance to explain why your work matters and how grant funding would help you make an even greater impact.

For the grant application, you have the choice to submit either a 500-word essay or a 1–2 minute video. There is not an option that is better, as long as you are authentic and passionate about what you are speaking about you have a great chance to win!

Start with Your "Why"

Before explaining what you'll be doing, share why this mission is important to you.

Ask yourself:

• What inspired me to serve?
• Why am I passionate about this mission?
• What experiences led me here?

Be Specific

Instead of simply saying, "I want to help people," explain exactly how you'll serve and the impact you hope to make. Describe who you'll be working with, what you'll be doing, and how this experience will affect both the people you serve and your own personal growth.

How will the Grant Help You

Don't forget to explain how receiving the grant would support your mission. Whether it's helping cover travel costs, purchasing supplies, or expanding your outreach, show the judges how the funding would make a difference.

Tips for Video Submissions

Your video doesn't need professional cameras or fancy editing. A smartphone, good lighting, and clear audio are more than enough.

Speak naturally, look at the camera, and let your passion show. Imagine you're sharing your story with a friend. Authenticity will always leave a stronger impression than a perfectly scripted performance.

As previous Leave Your Mark winner Savanna Matovka shared, missions are about saying "yes" to opportunities to serve wherever you're needed. Your application doesn't have to be perfect; it simply needs to reflect your heart for serving others.

Review Before You Submit

Before submitting, take a few minutes to review your work.

• If you're writing an essay, read it out loud and ask someone you trust to check it for grammar, spelling, and clarity.
• If you're submitting a video, watch it one last time to make sure your audio is clear, your message flows naturally, and you've fully answered the prompt.

A few extra minutes of review can make a big difference.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don't rely on AI - AI can help with brainstorming or proofreading, but your essay or video should reflect your own experiences and your own voice.
• Don't focus only on the logistics- tell us more than where you're going or what you'll be doing. Share why this mission matters to you.
• Don't be afraid to apply - Many people believe their story isn't "big enough," but the Leave Your Mark Grant isn't looking for the biggest project. It is looking for people with a genuine passion for serving others.

Your Story Matters

There isn't one perfect mission story, and there isn't one perfect applicant.

Whether you're serving internationally or making a difference in your own community, your experiences are unique. Tell us why your mission matters, how this grant would help you continue serving others, and the impact you hope to make.

We can't wait to hear your story.

Your story matters; apply today to share it.